Transportation EWR to 53rd & 5th (ish)
 

I was looking at the Carmel Car rates and it says $51 from Manhattan to EWR (I assume it's the same from the airport to the city). We've used Carmel before but I can't remember if that rate is per person or for the car and I don't see it on the website. Anyone know?

Also, I'm interested in the train but it goes to Penn Station and then we'll need a cab to our hotel on 53rd and 5th. If the train fare for two and a cab adds up, should we just take the Carmel Car?

We'll be landing mid-day on a Friday. We'll have wheeled-luggage (1 each) but not carry-on.

Any suggestions?

The rate is per car - but you must also pay the tunnel toll and a 20% tip (on far and not the toll) - so more like $70 total. This is standard for all car services.

Sorry - I don;t do luggage by train - I simply don;t want to deal with stairs or escalators. The cab to Penn and train will be cheaper for 2 than $70 - but how much is your convenience worth?

Thanks, nyt. My convenience is worth a lot plus I hate getting to a hotel all bedraggled. We'll probably do the car. Do we have to reserve it ahead of time or can we just go to the counter at the airport?

There is no counter at the airport. You need to reserve with Carmel or Dial 7 in advance - and then call them when your plane lands. They should have the car at your terminal by the time you collect your luggage/get to the entrance.

At EWR you're asked to call for your reserved car AFTER you pick up your luggage. If its very busy, you may have to wait for 5 minutes or o, but fatten the car is there by the time you find the correct door and spot by the curb.

Hers my big caveat. On a Friday at midday, traffic can be horrendous. .not withstanding the admitted convenience of a car service, I strongly recommend the train and taxi from Penn Station for that reason. The trip into the city might take more than hour at that time of day rather tan the usual 30 minutes. Just a thought. But getting a taxi at the train station can also be a hassle.

The longer trip would be too bad but we don't have any time constraints that afternoon so I think I'll still opt for the car. It's good to know about the train though, for other trips.
Thanks for your help.